Castello Banfi : Poggio alle Mura 2019

Named after the medieval castle that presides over Banfi’s expansive property in the southwest of Montalcino, Poggio alle Mura is the estate’s limited-production Brunello. It is crafted from parcels planted with selected clones based on a zonation study in the 1980s. The lively 2019 charms with red berries laced with nutmeg, juniper and fennel. Youthful fruit is yielding and pliable, though still wrapped in some dry, toasty oak tannins. It might benefit from a bit more concentration to absorb the alcohol. Give it another year in bottle to come together.

Black-cherry, ash, bark and dried dark-mushroom aromas follow through to a medium to full body with a solid sense of tannin and acidity. Polished and focused. Needs time to soften a bit, but shows fascinating oyster-shell and iodine undertones. Best in three or four years.

Single vineyard. Deep ruby. Firm, dark-fruit nose with peppery oak notes. Concentrated yet fresh, with firm and slightly astringent tannins beneath the tangy cherry fruit. Could do with more time in the bottle. (WS)

The dark magenta 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino Poggio Alle Mura is compact and rich on the nose with notes of black cherry, licorice, graphite, and pine sap. It is lighter on its feet than the nose might suggest, although it’s full-bodied, with its tannins expanding and building through the midpalate and finish, and it has good length. It takes on an earthier tone through the finish leaving a gripping sensation, and it’s going to benefit from a few years in the cellar before drinking. Drink 2026-2036.